'UNICEF': 'El Niño' phenomenon threatens children worldwide

New York – Agencies: The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has warned that more than 347 million children will face harsh weather conditions due to the natural phenomenon of El Niño. UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell stated that for children, El Niño is far more than just a climate pattern; it can mean increased displacement, malnutrition, water shortages, and the spread of diseases. Children also face the risk of school closures, while families may encounter additional financial hardships. She added, “With more than 347 million children living in areas expected to experience drier or wetter conditions due to El Niño, we must act now to protect communities and children.” The organization said, “More than 347 million children in approximately 100 countries and territories are expected to face unusually dry or wet conditions from October to December 2026 due to El Niño.” The largest number of children (190 million) will be affected by extreme weather in the Asia-Pacific region, while another 41 million children will face harsh weather conditions in Southern and Eastern Africa. An estimated 22 million children in Europe and Central Asia are also expected to feel the impacts of El Niño. The organization noted that approximately 1.1 billion children worldwide have already experienced droughts, heatwaves, or floods. According to the Los Angeles Times, this El Niño event is likely to be the strongest since 1950. El Niño is a natural phenomenon characterized by abnormally high sea surface temperatures in the equatorial Pacific Ocean, which can lead to changes in temperature and rainfall patterns. Brazil is among the most affected regions, with severe droughts and heatwaves in the North and Amazon areas, while heavy rains and floods occur in the South.